Shah Jahan Receives His Three Eldest SonsPainting from Padshahnama
1640 AD.
Having revolted against Jahangir, Shah Jahan was on the run for three years. During this period, Nur Jahan had kept Shah Jahan's three sons as hoatages. In 1627 Jahangir died in Kashmir. Asaf Khan, Shah Jahan's father-in-law told Shah Jahan to march to Agra and ascend the throne. Shah Jahan rushed from Nasik to Agra and was declared the next Emperor on 14 Feb. 1628. A month later, Shah Jahan was reunited with his sons. This painting depicts the poignant moment. While Prince Dara Shikho touches Shah Jahan's feet, Princes Shah Sujha and Aurangzeb solemnly wait for their turn. Asaf Kahn protectively stands behind the two princes.
Bitchitra has maintained the solemnity of the occasion by adhering to a formal symmetry in the composition. Yet all lines, diagonal, vertical or horizontal lead the eyes to Emperor Shah Jahan. The palette is one of the most colorful, yet the colors are subdued and subtle. This is certainly one of the finest Mughal miniatures.
Bitchitra has maintained the solemnity of the occasion by adhering to a formal symmetry in the composition. Yet all lines, diagonal, vertical or horizontal lead the eyes to Emperor Shah Jahan. The palette is one of the most colorful, yet the colors are subdued and subtle. This is certainly one of the finest Mughal miniatures.
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